ECOL 3530 - Conservation Biology

This course is an introduction to the rapidly expanding field of conservation biology. We will cover the foundational principles of conservation biology, and use case studies to illustrate these principles in practice. In general, our objective is not for you to memorize an extensive list of names, dates, or equations; rather, our goal is for you to obtain a functional understanding of key concepts, examples, case studies, patterns, and processes in conservation biology. Much of this course will be taught hands-on, as we meet and interact with various Costa Ricans and ecosystems. The final course lectures will address major, emerging issues in conservation science, with a focus on those issues that are particularly pertinent in Costa Rica.